Eager slapped with ban

Midway through the third period of the October 1 game against Dallas, Eager was assessed a match penalty for his altercation with Stars left wing Sean Avery, the NHL said.

Eager, who was on the bench at the time, swung his stick in the direction of Avery, who was on the ice.

The 24-year-old Eager will miss the Blackhawks first three games, against the New York Rangers, Washington and Nashville.

He will be eligible to return on October 15 when the Blackhawks face Phoenix.